9. Ladder-Style Shelving Surface

A ladder shelf is one of the most versatile pieces of furniture for small rooms. It is light, airy, and occupies a very small footprint while providing multiple levels of storage. To turn this into a vanity, you simply use the bottom “step” as your primary surface. You can treat the middle shelves like a boutique display for your perfumes, jewelry, and beauty tools, while the top shelves are used for non-beauty items like books or plants. It adds vertical interest to the room, drawing the eye up and making the ceiling feel higher.

How to Make

Select a ladder shelf with a bottom shelf that is at least 12 inches deep. Set the shelf against a wall near a window for natural light. Use a stylish, low stool that can slide under the bottom shelf. On the middle shelves, use coordinated glass jars or baskets to organize your beauty tools, making them look like part of the decor. Keep the top surfaces simple and styled with decorative items to ensure it doesn’t look like an office. Add a wall-mounted mirror above the “working” shelf to complete the look.

Things Needed

  • Ladder-style shelf unit
  • Vanity stool
  • Coordinated glass jars or baskets
  • Wall-mounted vanity mirror
  • Decorative accessories for styling
  • Level for safe installation